LINCOLN — Nebraska’s top prosecutor warned Thursday that those who pay for sex with children in dollars also risk paying in years behind bars.

Attorney General Doug Peterson said police and prosecutors in 2018 will ramp up their use of tools provided by state lawmakers in recent years to combat human trafficking. Under a law enacted last year, soliciting a minor now carries a penalty of 20 years to life in prison.

“From a law enforcement standpoint, the ball has been handed to us,” he said. “So in 2018, I think you’re going to see more proactive operations.”

Nebraskans also may see a trafficking awareness campaign called “Demand an End” announced Thursday by the attorney general. The campaign includes posters to be displayed in Interstate 80 rest stops, and a professionally produced video on YouTube and other social media platforms. Read More